It had been a big decision accepting the lead teaching position my school was offering me. For the past two years, and since my son was born, I’ve been in a part-time assistant teaching role. This role has been perfect because it has allowed me to maximize my time with my son. In this role there is no take home work, lesson planning, parent phone calls, or report writing. I get home from work, and I am free to be with my son.
This year our Montessori school opened a new upper elementary classroom. A Montessori upper elementary classroom is made up of three grade levels: 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. The children stay in the same classroom for three years. The new classroom has only nine 4th graders. In the fall, the classroom will grow as a new crop of incoming 4th graders join. This means another teacher is needed, and this is the position that my school has offered me. Due to some changes in my life, which I won’t get into now, I needed to accept the position.
In this position I will be co-teaching with, Danielle*, the teacher who opened the classroom this year. I’ve co-taught in the past, and in my experience, it can be a little bit like a marriage. Good, thoughtful communication is required, and it definitely helps if you share a similar style and vision. I’ve had the chance to get to know Danielle a little because I assist a few of her students. I’ve learned that she is slow to warm, but kind; soft-spoken; thoughtful; and organized.
I don’t feel an immediate or natural connection to Danielle. We haven’t spent time sharing stories or laughing together the way I have with some of the other teachers. Our usual communication is a brief hello while passing each other in the hallway. I don’t think it’s necessary for us to be friends to teach well together, but it would be nice.
Yesterday, I’m taken by surprise when I find an envelope on my desk with my name neatly written on it. I have no idea who has left it there for me. I open the envelope. Inside is a brightly colored card with a shiny peace sign. I open the card.
Deborah, Congratulation and thank you! I’m very excited that you will be joining the classroom next year. I think that we will make a great team. Cheers to next year! – Danielle
I smile. It’s an unexpected kind gesture, and it means a lot. I look at the shiny peace sign and feel a sense of relief. I’m not the only one who hopes that we will be friends.
I love Montessori! I was a literacy coach at a Montessori school where we integrated reading and writing workshop. Happy you are part of this community and best of luck!
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Thank you. I’m interested in integrating workshop. I may be contacting you!
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Please do! And here’s a post that might be of interest. https://annagcockerille.wordpress.com/2014/04/08/reading-and-writing-workshop-methods-in-a-montessori-classroom/comment-page-1/
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It takes a little time to establish those wonderful work relationships. Sounds like you and Danielle are on the fast track to being a great team!
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Isn’t it amazing what one small gesture will do? So glad she sent you the card–sounds like your new adventure is off to a great start. Good luck with the new position!
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Congratulations! What a great opportunity for you and what a nice way to be welcomed aboard. You will do fine and be fine.
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Co-teaching is tricky, but it sounds like you have the beginnings of a great team member. A thoughtful note does wonders to ease a questioning mind.
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I loved reading your story…and so happy it had a happy ending. Love that the card had a peace sign on it!!
Those lucky Montessori kids!!
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What an exciting peek at what could be an amazing thing to come! Lucky you! 🙂
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What a lovely story full of hope. Your writing gently reveals your anxiety but also your optimism. It is well-crafted, so that I can get a sense of the complexity of the situation and its impact on your emotions. Hold on to that optimism!
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